Surf Life Saving WA credits the dedication of its clubs and members as the 2019/20 west coast zone abalone fishing season closes out fatality free.
Despite a final session which proved challenging, with overcast weather and increased wind and swell catching out a number of fishers, overall the season saw good weather, diligent lifesavers, and fishers who were receptive to guidance and safety advice.
“The success of the 2019/20 season is a testament to the dedication shown from the multiple clubs who have sought to improve each session to maximise the chance of a positive outcome,” said SLSWA Lifesaving Coordinator Nick Pavy.
“With each fishing session requiring a large number of personnel and equipment, at times it can be extremely challenging when conflicting events, patrols and activities occur; however, this season we have seen the greatest level of involvement from clubs, both generally as well as those new to abalone patrol.”
Across the season, services were delivered by more than 500 lifesavers, covering nearly 12 km of coastline and utilising 41 rescue water craft, 34 IRBs and 6 drones. All of this relied heavily on the resources of the Abalone Patrol Coordination Clubs of Yanchep, Quinns-Mindarie, Mullaloo, Sorrento and Secret Harbour who invested significant time and resources to mobilise the teams.
Abalone patrol would not be possible without these Coordination Clubs, as well as the assistance and involvement from the support clubs of Champion Bay, Alkimos, Scarboro, City of Perth, Swanbourne Nedlands, North Cottesloe, Fremantle, Coogee, Mandurah, Port Bouvard and Denmark, whose assistance proved essential to achieving another successful season.
During the 2019/20 west coast zone abalone fishing season, surf life saving services performed a total of 15 rescues, 35 first aids and 1,019 preventative actions.
For more information on abalone fishing, tips and safety equipment head to mybeach.com.au/abalone
